Greetings on the Winter Solstice.

The fabrics are Echo by Lotta Jansdotter. I decided to make this bag at the last minute, and in 2.5 hours it was ready to go - this is an easy pattern with a great result and I recommend it. I am not planning any other handmade gifts, unless another last minute urge strikes.

It fits exactly right and will be on my table for the holidays. This room has a lot of ambiance - well it is fairly dark all the time - these pictures were taken just after lunch.

Here you can see the quilting details, which are lovely. Thank you Vicky, I am thrilled with this runner!

And look at the cute little owl she also sent me. He is already on my Christmas tree. This owl is made from the most beautiful feeling felt. I had never experienced felt like this so I have already ordered some for me from Vicky's source - Laura at Lupin Handmade and Laura's lovely blog is Bugs and Fishes.

Tomorrow I am hoping to finish working at noon and then start some holidays. Oh, and I have to tell you that the F.U.N.C. has arrived at my house, all the way from Judith in Ireland. I am going to take him out to show him the sights and I think he will have to spend Christmas at my house before I send him on his next journey. I'll see if I can get some pictures before he heads off next week.

And, today is the winter solstice, the darkest day of the year, but that also means that starting tomorrow the days get longer again, which makes it one of my favourite days of the year.

All the best to you and yours for this holiday season! I hope that you savour the moments, have plenty of laughs, and relax too.

Great bag again...seriously interested now I know it only takes 2 1/2 hours! Oh and I got all excited about getting over the shortest day until my husband informed me it kind of stays the same or a few weeks and you don 't really notice a difference in the light until some time in February. Cheered me up no end that did!

oh, that owl is darling :) and the bag... well, i think i might know what i'll do with my echo fabrics. i just picked up that pattern last week and i'm itching to get one started. happy holidays to you, Leanne!

Wonderful fabric choice for your latest 241. Echo is such an amazing fabric line.Lucky you, getting that beautiful runner and cute owl!Thins is the first of heard of FUNC...so funny and a great idea!!Merry Christmas to you and yours.